Mizuho analyst David Bellinger says Walmart (WMT, Financial) is a smart pick for investors trying to stay steady in a rocky market. He's sticking with an Outperform rating and sees the stock heading toward 105 dollars, which would be about 15 percent above where it trades now.
According to Bellinger, Walmart gives investors several ways to win during uncertain times. It continues to pull in price-conscious shoppers and has made solid progress in e-commerce, helping the company stay strong even when the economy slows.
Walmart has also become the country's largest grocery chain, which makes it a go-to source for everyday essentials. That role could give it an edge if the U.S. slips into a recession, Bellinger added.
Even though about one third of Walmart's products are imported, mostly from China and Mexico, Mizuho believes the company is taking smart steps to keep prices in check — including negotiating with suppliers when needed. Bellinger also floated a more bullish scenario where Walmart stock climbs to 125 dollars this year. So far in 2025, the stock is up about 2 percent.
